The suitcases are packed, vacation mode is on… but then comes the: what do you do with your cat? For many owners, traveling with their cat is a no-go. They prefer to arrange a cat sitter or book a boarding facility (read also: Arranging a cat sitter for the holiday? Here's how to do it stress-free). But suppose you do feel like it: how do you do that smartly?

 

Whether you're going away for a weekend, going on a road trip, or crossing Europe with a camper: this is everything you need to know and what you need when you take your little buddy on vacation.

Why taking your cat with you is sometimes better than leaving it behind

Not every cat feels comfortable in a boarding house or with a strange sitter. Some cats are so attached to their owner and their daily routine that another stay actually causes a lot of stress.

When it can be a good idea to take your cat with you:

  • Your cat is very attached to you and gets upset when you are away
  • Your cat is very sensitive to changes in smell or environment
  • You plan to go out regularly by car or camper
  • You cannot find a suitable sitter or do not fully trust boarding facilities

There are cats that have been traveling with their owner for years. Perhaps your cat (with the right preparation) is also such an adventurer?

But when exactly do you not take your cat with you?

Not every cat is suitable for traveling. Sometimes staying at home is simply safer and more pleasant.

Better leave your cat at home if:

  • Is panicked during car rides or travel
  • Your cat gets sick quickly or needs medication
  • Your cat is not used to other environments and reacts extremely to them
  • You are planning a trip with a lot of crowds, changing locations, or unsafe outdoor areas

💡If you are unsure, first consult your veterinarian: they have more knowledge and can also assess whether traveling is a good idea for your cat

Is my cat suitable for traveling with?

A travel-loving cat:

  1. Is curious and not overly afraid of new sounds/scents
  2. Is used to the travel carrier
  3. Can be alone for short moments, but feels most comfortable when you are nearby
  4. Shows no panic during car rides

How to prepare your cat (and yourself) well

Cats are creatures of habit. If you make traveling somewhat predictable, it feels less scary and unpredictable for your cat. Therefore, start practicing early.

Just to practice beforehand:

  • Place the travel carrier in the house weeks in advance, perhaps with some treats and a blanket inside
  • Take short car rides to get your cat used to the sound and movement
  • Optionally use a pheromone spray for more calm
  • Make sure the travel carrier is large enough and well ventilated
  • Bring familiar items such as a blanket or a worn T-shirt of yours
  • Check that your accommodation is pet-friendly and safe (no open windows, watch out for toxic plants
    etc.)
Rice essentials:

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The complete checklist

A good preparation makes the difference between stress or a relaxed trip with your cat. So if you dare, save the list, that way you won't forget anything!

Travel stuff & comfort

  • Safe, spacious travel carrier or transport cage (preferably one your cat already knows)
  • Comfortable blanket or cushion with the scent of home
  • Familiar toys for reassurance and distraction
  • Portable/foldable litter box + cat litter
  • Foldable food and water bowls
  • Travel towel or wet wipes for accidents
  • Cat net or seatbelt clip for travel carrier (safety in the car)

Nutrition & hydration

  • Enough dry food for the whole trip + reserve
  • Wet food for extra moisture
  • Clean drinking water in a well-sealable bottle
  • Snacks as a reward or distraction

Health & documents

  • Vaccination booklet / European pet passport (mandatory abroad!)
  • Identification chip checked & registered
  • Anti-flea/tick treatment + deworming tablets (administer before departure)
  • First aid kit for cats (with disinfectant, gauze, tweezers, etc.)
  • Calming spray or pheromone diffuser
  • Emergency number of your veterinarian + a local veterinarian
  • Confirmation that your accommodation is pet-friendly
  • Vaccination certificate against rabies (mandatory in many countries outside the Netherlands)

On the way (car, camper or train)

  • Extra grit and garbage bags
  • Optional: cat harness + leash (for safe exploration of new surroundings)
  • Traveling long? Plan stops for water/snack breaks and check on your cat
  • Use sunshades when the sun shines on the basket
  • Never leave your cat alone in a hot car, not even for a few minutes!
  • Pay close attention to stress signals (panting, hiding, aggression) and adjust where necessary

You not only discover new places, but also how much resilience your cat actually has. And how much patience you have for your cat ;)

Don't expect a beach holiday, but rather an adventure

Not every cat is made for adventure. Traveling with a cat is all about adapting. It can take a lot of effort, so it might not be a relaxing vacation for most. But it is certainly a fun and spontaneous journey of discovery! But with the right mindset, practice, and preparation, it can go surprisingly well.

And who knows: maybe your first vacation together will be the start of a whole new tradition.

Volg ons ook op Pinterest voor katten- én interieurinspiratie!

Do you feel like going on a trip with your cat?

Let us know in the comments below, we are curious!

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